Live Sound Rocks On At 129th AES Convention

Green Touring, Economics, Wireless Mics & Gigging In The ‘70’s

SAN FRANCISCO: To keep pace with the myriad changes impacting today’s pro audio industry, Live Sound practitioners are adapting to seismic shifts in technology and economics. 129th AES Convention Live Sound Co-Chairs, Jonathan Novick and Michael Knowles have developed a far-ranging program to bring attendees up-to-speed on issues and developments which may have direct impact on their livelihoods.

ECONOMICS-DRIVEN CHANGE – Moderator, Ken Lopez (USC) Panelists -Sam Berkow (SIA Acoustics), David Morgan, Robert Scovill (AVID, Tom Petty), Dave Shadoan (Sound Image) The economics of touring have changed dramatically over the past decade, as has the technology. Both factors are a catalyst for change. The session will open with the perspective of a tour accountant. A lively discussion with industry executives will follow. Are ego and fear inhibiting change, or are other factors involved?

WIRELESS MICROPHONES FOR THE FUTURE: Moderator, James Stoffo (PWS), and panelists Don Boomer (Line 6), Mark Brunner (Shure), Joe Ciaudelli (Sennheiser) and Karl Winkler (Lectrosonics) The FCC keeps changing the wireless spectrum available for mics. The 700 MHz band is already off limits and now there is Super-WiFi and the National Broadband Plan to consider below 700 MHz. Is any part of the spectrum safe? Find out the latest news from FCC and how the experts are insuring reliable RF operation now and preparing for the future

GIGGING IN THE 1970’S:Moderator, Lee Brenkman and panelists John Meyer (Meyer Sound), Radley Hirsch (San Francisco Audio) + TBA. What was it like running sound in the 1970’s, with home-grown speakers, amps pushed to the breaking point, and escalating SPL expectations? Bay Area, live-sound veterans will relive their war stories.

“In recent years Live Sound has gained new importance as a revenue source, yet economic concerns continue to impact on the ability to maintain quality as fans demand more ambitious productions and lower ticket prices,” says Convention Co-Chair Jim McTigue. “This year’s Live Sound events present a crash course in new methodology. Jonathan Novick and Michael Knowles have assembled a must-see program which will be a great asset to working professionals.”

The Audio Engineering Society was formed in 1948 by a group of concerned audio engineers. The AES counts over 14,000 members throughout the U.S., Latin America, Europe, Japan and the Far East. The organization serves as the pivotal force in the exchange and dissemination of technical information for the industry. For additional information visit http://www.aes.org